Time to Start Your Journey as a Renegade

This article appeared in the July issue of Bakersfield Life.

As we approach a period of new leadership after more than 10 years of unprecedented growth in enrollment, it’s never been a better time to be a Renegade. Our students, faculty, staff and community are watching Bakersfield College evolve right in front of their eyes through the construction projects that were funded as part of Measure J. Our focus for this year, which is the first full year for our new President, Dr. Jerry Fliger, is building upon the programs that have proven to be successful, such as our Early College and baccalaureate degree programs, while continuing to increase our accessibility to students by meeting them wherever they are, whether it’s online, at our Panorama Campus, BC Southwest, our Delano Campus or our new campus in Arvin where we'll be offering classes soon.

We’re excited to offer our second Bachelor of Science degree in Research Laboratory Technology, which will leverage our state-of-the-art Science and Engineering building to train the next generation of scientists and other laboratory professionals. We’ve also found success using non-credit courses that students can take at zero cost as onramps into other kinds of degrees and certificates. Right now, students can take non-credit courses in a number of areas, including business, health sciences, industrial technology, and modern energy, and we’ll be looking to incorporate apprenticeships, pre-apprenticeships, virtual reality simulations, and other work-based learning opportunities with these programs as part of a new districtwide initiative known as the Economic Mobility Laboratory.

STUDENT SUPPORT

BC makes it easy for students to enroll, secure financial aid, and receive the support they need to finish their degree or transfer to a 4-year university. Students can visit our campus in-person or log in to our Student Information Desk online to talk to a counselor, advisor, or financial aid technician. We also have a diverse slate of academic support services such as our Tutoring Center, Writing Center, and programs like MESA to help students along their journey.

Our completion coaching communities and student affinity groups like Umoja, A2MEND, and Latinos Unidos por Educacion help first-generation students find a community of their peers to uplift each other and share in their success. We also have programs for foster youth, international students, veterans, formerly incarcerated students, and more.

STUDENT ENRICHMENT

Renegade Athletics

Renegade Athletics is one of the most accomplished programs in the history of the California Community College Athletic Association.  Students from across Kern County are recruited to play in 21 men’s and women’s sports, including football, men and women’s basketball, baseball, softball, golf, and track and field.  Many Renegade student athletes have gone on to compete in NCAA Division I competition and professional leagues.  We invite you to come to the Panorama Drive campus to catch one of our fall sports events; you’ll be amazed by our local talent!

We’re especially excited to bring back to life the BC Alumni BBQ, which will be held immediately before kick-off of the Homecoming Football Game on Saturday, October 19.  Presented by Harris BBQ, the meal will feature Harris Ranch tri-tip, macaroni and cheese and potato salad, plus each BBQ ticket will include entry into the football game.  Advance BBQ tickets are available at www.supportbc.org.

Renegades and the Arts

Every year, our Commercial Music instructor Josh Ottum works with jazz director Kris Tiner and other faculty members to host the annual Panorama Creative Music Summit, which features performances, workshops and panels with working professionals in the music industry. This year is the 40th anniversary of the Kern Shakespeare Festival hosted by our Theater Department, and we showcase artwork from BC and Kern High School students every year at the Jones Art Gallery inside the Panorama Campus library.

Getting Students to the Finish Line

Whether you’re looking to start your educational pathway or get those last few classes you need to receive your degree, Bakersfield College is here to help you accomplish your educational goals by any means necessary. Don’t hesitate to reach out to one of our counselors, academic advisors, financial aid experts, or more to start your journey as a Renegade.